FMC’s submission on the future of Whakapapa Ski Area

Whakapapa Holdings 2024 Limited has applied for a concession to operate the Whakapapa Ski Area on Mt Ruapehu for the next ten years. In general, FMC supports granting a new concession to Whakapapa Holdings 2024.

We have submitted recommendations on some key concession conditions. We expect our recommendations to be considered and implemented.

We recognise the ski field’s value to local communities, the economy, and recreation, including for many of our members. Our primary recommendations are maintaining public access to conservation land and minimising the operational burden on DOC.

We would like to see public access guaranteed for all, not just paying ski field visitors. This includes free public use of the car park, with a reliable and affordable shuttle service to reduce traffic on the maunga.

The ski field’s capacity should account for all visitors, including backcountry users. We propose a system to monitor and manage daily slope capacity and encourage Whakapapa Holdings Limited to offer single-lift passes for backcountry users, a process FMC is happy to help facilitate.

Ski field operations, including infrastructure removal in the event of receivership, should not impose financial costs on DOC. Environmental impacts must also be minimised, and we welcome Whakapapa Holding Limited’s consideration of climate change effects. We are keen to collaborate on reducing the maunga’s carbon footprint.

Consultation with mana whenua is essential, along with a strong working relationship between Whakapapa Holdings Limited, FMC, and clubs with facilities on the mountain.

We look forward to a productive, long-term partnership with the new operator to ensure both recreation, public and environmental protections remain priorities.

You can view our submission here.

Photo: Drive to Whakapapa, Davide Conti